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Margaret White and the Alcoran of Mahomet

The fascinating story of how a woman living in London in the 17th century was the driving force behind the first publication of the Qu'ran in English. By Hannah Khalil.

By Hannah Khalil

1649 was a significant year in British History because King Charles I was executed for treason. A lesser known, but arguably equally important, historical moment occurred in that same year: the first publication of the Qu'ran in English. Surprisingly, it was instigated by an English woman, called Margaret White, who was the wife of a printer called Robert based in Fleet Street, London.

Based on historical research, this drama imagines the circumstances as to how the Qu'ran came to be first published in the English language.

Cast:
Margaret ......... Erin Shanagher
Ayesha ..................Laila Alj
Robert ...................Graeme Hawley
Nicholas ............ Jon-Paul Bell
Sergeant ............ Hamilton Berstock

Production Co-ordinator - Pippa Day
Studio Manager- Amy Brennan
Sound Designer- Sharon Hughes
Producer/Director- Jessica Mitic

With thanks to Professor Suzanne Trill, the Arab British Centre and Dr Johnson鈥檚 House Museum
Historical consultant-Professor Matthew Birchwood

A 麻豆官网首页入口 Studios Audio Production for Radio 4.

Release date:

44 minutes

On radio

Wed 5 Feb 2025 14:15

Broadcast

  • Wed 5 Feb 2025 14:15

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